Verster, 53, was criticised over the service’s failure to meet punctuality and reliability targets and during his time in charge, Dutch firm Abellio have faced calls to be stripped of the £7billion 10-year franchise.

Hynes, who has nearly 20 years of industry experience, said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to lead ScotRail Alliance, which brings together the management of ScotRail and Network Rail to deliver the very best for customers.

He said: “I wish Alex Hynes well as he takes on this difficult role. The relationship between ScotRail and the SNP appears to be at breaking point, so Mr Hynes will have a lot of work to do repairing that in the interests of Scotland’s passengers.